NEW YORK -- The Rays on Friday acquired right-hander Forrest Whitley from the Astros for cash considerations.
Whitley, a former first-round Draft pick in 2016, was designated for assignment by Houston on June 8.
The 27-year-old hadn’t pitched since giving up five earned runs, four hits and two walks in two innings in relief in a 16-3 loss to the Rays on May 31. In five games with the Astros this year, he allowed 10 earned runs, nine hits and six walks while striking out eight batters in 7 1/3 innings (12.27 ERA).
Whitley, who was converted from starter to reliever last year, was in line to make Houston’s Opening Day roster this year before a left knee bone bruise in Spring Training derailed him. He missed the first 19 games before being reinstated April 19, only to land back on the IL from April 27-May 21 with a left knee sprain.
The injuries were the latest in a long line of ailments that plagued the hard-throwing right-hander in his career, including Tommy John surgery in 2021.
When Whitley joins the Rays, he will remain in a relief role, according to manager Kevin Cash. Whitley could join the team as early as Saturday.
“We really like the arm. We really like the offspeed pitches and the weapons that he has. I just want to get him in here and get to know him,” Cash said.